Bontoc, Mountain Province – During the celebration of the 116th Bontoc Foundation Day, a packed audience at the Bontoc Municipal Capitol listened as the Guest of Honor and Speaker emphasized the municipality’s progress and development. Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Regional Director Nathaniel Lacambra, who attended the event on September 16, 2024, highlighted how Bontoc’s current state reflects its people’s commitment to economic growth and sustainable development.
Lacambra commended the Bontoc community for embodying the event’s theme, “Innovation and Adaptability for a Better and Brighter Bontoc.”
“Innovation and adaptability are crucial to success, whether for an individual or an organization,” Lacambra stated. “Innovation fuels economic growth by introducing new ideas and methods suited to a changing world. Adaptability, meanwhile, is our willingness to embrace change, learn from our shortcomings, and adjust our attitudes and strategies to meet the challenges of a fast-paced environment.”
He also encouraged the Bontoc community to reflect on their journey, the challenges they’ve overcome, the progress they’ve made, and their future aspirations.
“Whatever hardships you’ve faced, don’t be discouraged. Keep your faith alive, maintain the desire to overcome fears, and find the strength to move forward, even when the path is difficult,” Lacambra added.
Lacambra further assured that DOLE remains committed to supporting the Bontoc Local Government Unit (LGU) in its efforts to uplift the lives of its constituents. Representing him at the event was Atty. Marina Cayabo, Administrative Chief of DOLE-Regional Office.
Mountain Province House Representative Maximo Dalog, Jr. also addressed the crowd, urging the community to preserve cultural values such as the Og-ogfo, a practice of mutual assistance that exemplifies the strength of local traditions.
“When we work together, our unity lightens the load and improves our quality of life, especially during challenging times. Nu ulas si lagsak, fumala taku ay makilagsak, nu timpon si likat, wady taku ay makies-esang ay fumachang isnan kakailyan. This saying reflects our shared Ifontok identity and the beauty of our community,” Dalog remarked.
In his welcome address, Bontoc Mayor Jerome “Chagsen” Tudlong, Jr. emphasized the significance of September 16 as Bontoc’s “birthday.” He noted that birthdays are not just about marking the passage of time, but about celebrating progress and looking forward to the future.
“As we gather to celebrate Bontoc’s 116th Foundation Day, we are reminded that birthdays are a time for reflection, gratitude, and renewal,” Tudlong said. “This occasion brings together families, friends, and neighbors to honor our heritage and envision a future that embraces innovation and adaptability.”
The mayor encouraged everyone to take part in the celebration and create lasting memories. He stressed the importance of working together to preserve what is valuable while striving for progress.
“By working together, we can create a community that thrives on innovation, adapts to challenges, and continues to shine brightly for generations to come,” Tudlong concluded.
Governor Bonifacio Lacwasan, Jr., through a message delivered by Provincial Administrator Franklin Odsey, extended the provincial government’s congratulations to Bontoc for achieving another milestone. He highlighted the municipality’s various achievements over the years, including national accolades.
Also attending the celebration were Tadian Mayor Constito Masweng, President of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP) – Mountain Province Chapter, as well as DOLE Provincial Head George Lubin, Jr. and Mountain Province State University President Edgar Cue.
The 116th Bontoc Foundation Day drew thousands of attendees, who witnessed the first-ever Creative Street Dancing and Presentation, featuring performances by high school students from the capital town. // ALPINE KILLA-MALWAGA, BONTOC LGU
